Description
This process involves the removal of hazardous residue from tanks prior to repair work.
- Only the tanks on barges are normally cleaned in port facilities. Because of the
danger of catastrophic explosions, tanks on ships are cleaned at sea, as required by Coast
Guard regulations 46 CFR 35.1-1(c)(1) for tank vessels, 14 CFR 71.60(c)(1) for passenger
vessels, and 46 CFR 91.50-1(c)(1) for cargo and miscellaneous vessels. Different types of
tanks require different procedures. For example, the protocol for cleaning LNG tanks
differs considerably from cleaning tanks on conventional barges.1
- Although machines are used to wash tanks, the final cleaning is usually performed
manually (known as "mucking"), a procedure that requires protocols for entry
into confined spaces and the use of airline respirators, protective clothing and
attendants.1
- Certification of tanks by a marine chemist is required before hot work can be performed in tanks.
Equipment
- Butterworth, Gamajet, or other automatic cleaning machines
- Ventilators - blowers and ejectors
- Airline respirators and protective clothing - for hand washing or "mucking"
Associated Hazards
References
1 Savage, K. M. "Marine Gas Hazards Control: Cleaning and
Gas-Freeing Shipboard Tanks." National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH) Contract Report 099-74-0002 (NTIS PB-82-225-095). Proceedings of the International Shipyard Health
Conference, (1973, December 13-15).
2 Netterson, R.W. "Accident prevention in shipbuilding and
repairing." Safety and Health in Shipbuilding and Ship Repair. Geneva: International Labour Office,
1972.
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